A South Korean court sentenced Han Hak-ja, leader of the Unification Church, to two years in prison on Monday for bribing officials, including former first lady Kim Keon Hee. The court found that Han, 83, provided luxury items such as a designer handbag to Kim during the presidency of Yoon Suk Yeol in an effort to influence government policies.

Han appeared in court in a wheelchair, dressed in hospital attire and wearing a surgical mask, accompanied by aides. Prosecutors had initially requested a 13-year prison term. The Seoul Central District Court’s ruling noted Han’s central role as the head of the Unification Church and cited this as a factor making a prison sentence unavoidable.

In addition to the bribery involving Kim, Han faced allegations related to illegal funding provided to former lawmaker Kweon Seon-dong, who is currently imprisoned on bribery charges. A spokesperson for the Unification Church confirmed the sentence but emphasized the church’s intention to appeal the decision. The organization stated it rejects the court’s conclusion that Han orchestrated or approved the illegal activities.

Founded in 1954 by Han’s late husband Moon Sun-myung, the Unification Church has been a controversial and influential religious movement in South Korea. Known for its large-scale mass wedding ceremonies and diverse business ventures spanning media, education, and food distribution, the church has often attracted scrutiny over its political connections.

Han, regarded by followers as the “True Mother,” assumed leadership of the church after Moon’s death in 2012. Her arrest in September 2025 marked a significant development in ongoing investigations into corruption involving prominent political figures. The Unification Church claims to have approximately 10 million adherents globally.